KEY POINTS

• The Federal Government formally withdrew criminal defamation charges against Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.
• The FCT High Court struck out the case after the Attorney General filed a notice of discontinuance.
• The senator described the decision as a vindication and reaffirmation of the rule of law.

The Federal Government has dropped criminal defamation charges against Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan. This ends a case that sparked a national debate about free speech and political accountability.

The charges were dropped by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja on Wednesday after the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation sent a notice of discontinuance.

Justice C N Oji, who was in charge of the case, accepted the notice and officially closed it.

FHC ABJ CR 195 2025 was the name of the lawsuit that came after comments that the Kogi Central senator allegedly made during a televised interview.

Civil society groups and political observers criticised the charges because they didn’t think it was right to use criminal law in cases where people were arguing about what they said in public.

Natasha Welcomes Decision

Reacting shortly after the ruling, Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan said the outcome validated her confidence in Nigeria’s legal system and democratic institutions.

“Today’s outcome affirms my belief in the rule of law,” she said. “I remain committed to serving my constituents and defending the democratic rights of all Nigerians.”

She also thanked her legal team, supporters, and constituents for standing by her throughout the proceedings, describing their support as a source of strength during the legal challenge.

Justice Oji, in brief remarks from the bench, said the withdrawal of the charges highlighted the importance of caution in the exercise of prosecutorial authority.

He expressed hope that the decision would encourage restraint and help promote respect for the rule of law within Nigeria’s democratic process.

Counsel representing the Federal Government confirmed in open court that the notice of discontinuance was filed in line with provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act.

The lawyer said the decision was taken in the interest of justice and public confidence in the legal system.